FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Why choose Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a science-based, health care profession concerned with restoring healthy movement and regaining full activity wherever possible. It plays a vital part in pain relief and healing. It can restore joint mobility, muscle flexibility, strength and coordination as well as core stability after injury or disease.
Physiotherapists are trained to diagnose problems in the joints, nerves and soft tissues of the body, and will conduct a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan for your particular problem. A key element of physiotherapy is the patient’s involvement in their own care, through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their own treatment.

What do physiotherapists do?

Physiotherapists use a variety of different techniques to treat people affected by injury, disability or illness. Techniques such as exercise, manual therapy, electrotherapy, soft tissue massage and education can help to restore normal movement and function. Most of our physiotherapists are fully qualified to perform manipulation and use it when clinically appropriate. Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain and improve function through specific, goal-driven interventions and education. Your physiotherapist will explain your diagnosis to you and provide a clear treatment plan and prognosis. You will also be taught things that you can do at home to speed-up your own recovery.

Are the practitioners at KTB all fully qualified?

All physiotherapists at KTB are fully qualified and members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This means that your practitioner will be closely regulated to ensure they are abiding by professional standards of practice, maintaining only the highest standards of care and that they are able to demonstrate their commitment to using the latest research and treatment methods to improve your condition.

What types of problem can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy can be used to help manage a wide variety of health conditions that affect many of the body’s systems. KTB physiotherapy are specialists in musculoskeletal physiotherapy. This means that we deal mainly with conditions related to problems with bones, nerves, joints and soft tissues. A few examples of these are painful backs, necks and joints, sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries, postural problems, pain from arthritis, injury resulting from accidents or rehabilitation after a fall or surgery. We also offer prehabilitation which is optimization prior to surgery. Other conditions such as neurological problems can also benefit from physiotherapy but may require a neurological specialist physiotherapist, in these situations we can refer to a specialist in house.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

Chartered physiotherapists are autonomous professionals and are trained in assessing and diagnosing physical problems. This means that if you are paying for treatment independently you do not necessarily need to see your GP prior to physiotherapy. If we feel we need more information or feel you may need medical investigations however it may be beneficial for us to contact your GP, which we will do with your consent.
If you use private medical insurance you may require a GP’s referral, depending on your insurer’s requirement. You should always check with your insurance company before attending your first session.

What to expect from the first visit

At your initial appointment, a full history of your injury and general health will be taken. This is to establish details about the cause and nature of your problem and can be crucial in reaching the correct diagnosis and subsequently the appropriate treatment. Your physiotherapist will then conduct a physical assessment to identify the source of the problem in order to determine a clinical diagnosis of your condition and the best combination of treatment modalities to use. The most appropriate treatment will be explained to you and a personalised treatment plan will be created. There is usually time to start the treatment on the first visit.

Referring for a scan or X-ray

Occasionally, following Physiotherapy assessment we will recommend a scan or Xray. In this instance we will write a letter to your GP requesting a second opinion from them so that they can organise this for you. Alternatively if you have any referral letters, scans or results please bring these with you to your appointment.

Are KTB registered with the major health insurance providers?

KTB are registered with all major providers, including BUPA, AXA PPP and Norwich Union (AVIVA), but and you may need a referral from your GP in order to claim so ensure that you have checked your policy. In some instances you may be required to pay for your treatment, which can then be reimbursed upon the issue of a receipt from the health plan provider.

What do I wear to the sessions?

In order to feel as comfortable as possible during your physiotherapy session loose fitting and stretchy clothing is ideal. Our physiotherapists will always protect your dignity however in order to treat your problem appropriately your physiotherapist will require you to partially undress to assess. For this reason it is a good idea to bring a change of clothes with you. Shorts are recommended for lower limb problems and vest tops are suitable for upper limb problems.

How long will my appointment last?

Treatment sessions are for 30 minutes unless a double session is booked.

How often will I need to come for treatment?

The number of sessions required will depend on individual problems and how acute your symptoms are. At the first appointment your physiotherapist will give an estimate of the number of sessions you are likely to require based on your assessment findings. Please be reassured that we are committed to getting you better and effectively self-managing your condition to prevent recurrence with as few treatments as possible.

How much does it cost?

A key principle of KTB is value for money and this is represented in our fair and competitive prices (see link).

How will payment be taken?

Payment will be taken at the time of booking by credit or debit card. For those wishing to take advantage of block booking discounts, full payment for all sessions will be required at or prior to the first session. If you are with a referring company then this company will be charged directly.

What happens if I miss my appointment?

If you give 24 hours’ notice that you cannot attend your appointment you will not be charged and another appointment will be made for you. If you fail to attend and do not inform us then you may still be charged for the lost appointment at the full cost. If you cancel within 24 hours then you will lose only your deposit. Please note that late cancellation or non-attendance fees are the liability of the individual even if the treatment is covered by private health insurance or medico-legal companies.

Treatment for under 16’s

Patients under the age of 16 years will always require a parent or guardian to be present at every appointment. If they are not present the appointment will not go ahead and you may still be charged at the full rate.

Does physiotherapy hurt?

Some assessment or treatment techniques may be uncomfortable but at no stage should you be unable to tolerate the level of discomfort. Your physiotherapist will give you clear guidelines on what to expect during and after treatment and what is a normal reaction. If you have any concerns then you should speak to your physiotherapist immediately.
What is the difference between a same day massage appointment and a standard physiotherapy appointment?
Physiotherapy is much more than massage, although specific massage techniques may be used if they are regarded as an appropriate treatment to aid your recovery. Physiotherapy treatment can include manual therapy, soft tissue mobilisation (such as massage), postural advice, exercise therapy and electrotherapy, plus many more treatment options.